4 side effects of antidepressants
health

4 side effects of antidepressants

Antidepressants are meant for the management of depressive disorders such as clinical depression, bipolar depression, persistent depressive disorder (PDD), premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), atypical depression, seasonal affective disorder, bulimia, generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, and social phobia. Healthcare providers generally prescribe these in combination with psychotherapy (talk therapy) to address the root cause of depression. While antidepressants help manage these conditions, there are a few side effects to be aware of. There are a few typical side effects of anti-depressants and some not-so-common side effects. These are mentioned below: 1. Typical side effects Every individual may experience different reactions to antidepressants. Some of the most frequently occurring side effects include nausea, trouble sleeping (insomnia) or sleeping too much, dry mouth, blurred vision, dizziness, decreased alertness, agitation, and anxiety. A few other symptoms also include loss of appetite, loss of libido, headache, diarrhea or constipation, fatigue, tremors, and increased sweating. 2. Bleeding Some antidepressants can affect the blood-clotting process, increasing the risk of bleeding. One may experience this in the form of frequent, easy bruising and nosebleeds. 3. Lower sodium levels Antidepressants may also negatively impact the sodium levels in the body. This is more common among older people.
Benefits and drawbacks of rent-to-own homes unveiled
Everything Else

Benefits and drawbacks of rent-to-own homes unveiled

A rent-to-own home helps individuals buy the home they are renting once the lease expires. It is an excellent option for individuals who cannot secure traditional mortgages upfront. Here, part of the monthly rent payments may go toward the purchase price, and additional expenses and fees might apply. However, before signing the agreement, one must explore various details, like the advantages and drawbacks, to make informed decisions during their home-buying journey. Benefits of rent-to-own homes Helping save for a down payment Those who direct a portion of rent payments towards the purchase price could help accumulate a significant down payment towards the home’s purchase price. It could make it easier for them to handle a big down payment they might have had trouble saving up for. Going with the rent-to-own home option may also help an individual build equity. Ample time to improve finances One could use the rental period to pay down their debt, cushion their savings, and improve their credit score. Moreover, signing up for the rent-to-own home agreement may also help increase one’s income before one purchases a home. Therefore, the option could help one marginally improve their finances. Lock in prices Individuals who sign up for this agreement are usually aware of the purchase price from the start.
3 types of disability insurance and their benefits
insurance

3 types of disability insurance and their benefits

A health condition or disability can make it difficult to work, carry out everyday tasks, and lead healthy lives without assistance. In such cases, having an insurance policy in place that offers certain benefits can be a great source of monetary assistance. One could also get approved for disability benefits, which can help improve their overall financial situation. Here are the common types of disability insurance coverage options and key benefits one can get: 1. Short-term disability insurance Disability insurance can help replace a portion of the income one loses if they are unable to work due to a prolonged illness or injury. Short-term disability insurance starts paying benefits within one to two weeks of a qualifying illness or injury. It also covers an individual for a benefit period that is usually 13 to 26 weeks. One should note that short-term disability insurance covers between 40% to 70% of the income. The policyholder will continue to receive benefits until they can return to work or until they reach the end of the benefit period. Conditions that qualify for short-term disability claims include pregnancy, mental health issues, musculoskeletal issues, and injuries. One should note that the insurance benefits extend to an injury or illness unrelated to one’s job.
A guide to applying for social security disability form
insurance

A guide to applying for social security disability form

Applying for disability benefits at the Social Security Administration (SSA) can be challenging. An individual may feel overwhelmed with the various forms to be filled out and the numerous questions to answer. However, the process can be simplified with the right tips and guidance. Therefore, here’s a comprehensive guide that discusses things to know before applying for SSA’s disability benefits, including which forms to fill out and how to apply. The additional forms Most people know that the SSA-16 form is the primary application form that individuals must complete to apply for Social Security disability benefits. However, many individuals may not know that SSA-16 is not the only required form. The government may require applicants to fill out additional forms to provide details. These additional forms include the following: Form SSA-3373-BK: This form refers to the ‘function report’ form. It requires the applicant to mention how their condition or disability affects their ability to work and their daily activities. A few daily activities it asks about include dressing, bathing, caring for family or pets, etc. Form SSA-3369-BK: This form refers to the ‘work history report’ form. In this form, the applicant must provide details about their work history, including previous job positions and responsibilities.
4 factors to consider before buying a RAM truck
auto

4 factors to consider before buying a RAM truck

RAM has long been one of the most popular brands when it comes to pickup trucks. But despite the positive reviews and experiences, one must still do some independent research when purchasing a new truck. It is crucial to consider certain factors to understand if a truck suits one’s lifestyle and usage. So, here are a few such factors, including pricing and fuel efficiency, that one must consider before buying a new RAM truck. Budget The prices of the trucks are among the most important factors that one would need to consider before deciding to purchase any model. After all, it is quite hard to fall in love with a vehicle’s features and then realize that it is out of one’s budget. So, if one is considering buying a RAM truck, here are the starting prices of some of its popular 2024 models: RAM 1500 Classic The RAM 1500 Classic is among the most affordable choices of RAM’s pickup trucks. The price of its latest model starts at around $32,300. RAM 1500 The RAM 1500 is priced slightly higher than the 1500 Classic. The pricing for its 2024 models starts at around $39,400. RAM 2500 The pricing for the 2024 models of RAM 2500 starts at around $47,700.
6 popular gummies for pain relief
health

6 popular gummies for pain relief

The body is susceptible to various types of pain triggered by health conditions like arthritis, injuries, and other complications. One way to find relief in such situations is to speak to an expert and consider using pain-relieving gummies. Apart from reducing pain, most of these gummies taste good, have a lovely aroma, and are easy to digest, which makes them significantly more popular than traditional pain relievers. Below are six popular options one could consider. Emergen-C Botanicals Turmeric & Ginger Immune Support Gummies For daily immune system support, one should consider these Emergen-C gummies. Their composition includes natural turmeric and ginger, potent vitamin C, antioxidants, B vitamins, and electrolytes. Apart from boosting the immune system, the gummies may bring down the pain one may experience in various parts of the body. As for its flavor, Emergen-C has a citric-ginger blend that most people will enjoy. Rip Toned Turmeric Gummy As a brand, Rip Toned is well-known for a range of pain-relieving gummies. This turmeric gummy is one among them and may work well for several individuals. As the name suggests, the pain-relieving gummy packs turmeric, which may have multiple implementations. The composition also includes other ingredients, such as ginger and black pepper, which work with turmeric to eliminate harmful properties from the body, complement skin health, ease joint pain, and boost the immune system.
5 mistakes to avoid when choosing a front door
Home&garden

5 mistakes to avoid when choosing a front door

A stunning entrance can leave a lasting impression on visitors. Even though doors are such an important part of homes, people often forget to pay enough attention when choosing them. This can lead to wonky aesthetics, safety issues, and higher energy costs as well. To help one choose the right front door for their house, here are some of the most common mistakes they should avoid while making a purchase decision: 1. Choosing the wrong material To ensure one gets a strong, durable door that keeps the home safe, it is important to carefully consider its material. One can choose from the following common materials: Fiberglass: This material is durable and easy to clean. One can choose between two types of fiberglass doors—with and without glass panels—depending on their daylight requirements. This material gives a sleek finish to the home and is known for being energy efficient. Steel: For those living in regions with harsh weather, steel doors can be perfect. They require very little maintenance and often feature an added layer of foam for enhanced energy efficiency. Wood: A classic choice, wood has been the favored material for doors around the world. Thanks to its warm, natural appearance, it gives a welcoming finish to every home.
9 early osteoporosis signs that shouldn’t be ignored
health

9 early osteoporosis signs that shouldn’t be ignored

The bones are the structural blocks of the body because they give it its shape and structure. With osteoporosis, the bones become progressively weak and brittle, so much so that even slight movements can result in an injury. Also, mobility is often affected, so moving about even within the home becomes difficult. However, by detecting osteoporosis early, one can control its symptoms with treatment. Here are some early signs of osteoporosis one shouldn’t ignore: 1. Severe back pain Like the other bones, the spine may also weaken as osteoporosis progresses. A collapsed or broken spine can lead to excruciating back pain, which can worsen with activity or even slight movements. 2. Loss of height Many people with osteoporosis develop a hunched back because the bones in the spine become so weak that they begin to crumble. This can make one appear shorter in stature than they are. 3. High susceptibility to fractures Bone brittleness is a common sign of osteoporosis, wherein bones may break even with the slightest movement or activity. In this scenario, injuries are prevalent, and patients may easily develop fractures as a result. So, if one gets frequent fractures, even with the most basic movements, it is time to consult a doctor.
5 common window replacement mistakes to avoid
Home&garden

5 common window replacement mistakes to avoid

The windows of a house can get damaged over time due to factors like extreme weather conditions, rot, wear and tear, or even accidents. It is important to replace windows as soon as one notices signs of major damage to restore the safety and convenience windows provide. Further, while replacing windows, one can opt for better frames and panes to enhance the look and functionality of windows. But, one should avoid the following mistakes: 1. Getting measurements wrong When planning to replace a window, one of the most important things to do is take accurate measurements of the available space. If the measurements are incorrect, one may end up with parts that do not fit. Further, measuring the shortlisted window frames can help one select options that fit with available space at home. Also, measurements should not be limited to the height and width but should also include the desired thickness to ensure the chosen frame fits easily into the allotted space. 2. Choosing the wrong material The window material has a major impact on the energy bills. If one chooses a glass or frame that offers poor insulation, the temperature regulation inside the home will be affected, leading to higher electricity consumption.
8 signs of tardive dyskinesia one can not ignore
health

8 signs of tardive dyskinesia one can not ignore

Tardive dyskinesia, or TD, causes the body to deal with involuntary movements of the muscles in the body, including the face, limbs, neck, and jaw. Typically, TD is caused by the long-term intake of certain prescription treatments that are used to combat schizophrenia and other mental health conditions. These are primarily treatments that interfere with the brain’s dopamine receptors. With timely diagnosis and prompt treatment, this neurological condition can be cured over time.  Facial ticks Patients with this condition can experience facial ticks, distortion, and pronounced grimacing of the face. The distortion can be from mild to severe, depending on the condition’s intensity. It can also cause the patient to deal with socially distressing situations and impact their confidence. Facial ticks are one of the most common early warning signs that should be taken care of as soon as one notices it. Dental problems The neurological condition can involuntarily cause dental movements to be prolonged. For example, if the patient puckers their lips, they may have difficulty in undoing the movement, which can lead to dental problems. This complication can cause changes in the patient’s dental alignment and result in malocclusion. Therefore, TD patients should schedule routine dental checkups and adopt preventive measures to manage their dental health effectively.

Top Articles

Important things to know about kidney and liver-related diseases
health

Important things to know about kidney and liver-related diseases

The kidney and liver are two important organs in your body. You must keep them healthy to maintain a happy and safe life. However, you should also be aware of some important facts about the liver and kidney-related diseases so that you can visit your doctor before any health-related issue becomes more serious. Kidney and liver diseases and stages Chronic kidney disease is a medical condition that affects your kidneys. However, it progresses in five different stages and usually does not affect both the kidneys at once. Before learning about the stages of this illness, you need to first understand what Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) is. The age, gender, race, and serum creatinine are taken into account to calculate a person’s GFR, which determines the stage of chronic kidney disease. The serum creatinine is a type of waste product, which comes from the body’s muscle activity. As the condition of your kidney worsens, it filters less and less creatinine. The GFR calculation uses this to determine the kidney condition. Stage 1 : GFR > 90 ml/min Stage 2 : GFR = 60-89 ml/min Stage 3A : GFR = 45-59 ml/min Stage 3B : GFR = 30-44 ml/min Stage 4 :
Oral health issues and their diagnosis and prevention
health

Oral health issues and their diagnosis and prevention

Oral health indicates overall health, so regular oral hygiene is important to prevent cavities, bad breath, gum diseases, and other mouth and teeth issues. Also, oral health is important at every stage of life, and it should not be taken lightly as oral diseases can also spread to the rest of the body. Let’s take a look at the basics of oral health issues and how to prevent them. Common oral health problems Oral health problems can affect people at different stages of lives: Infants A routine to help children maintain oral hygiene. When a child starts getting their first teeth, parents should wipe their gums with a clean, moist washcloth. Gradually, they can change this washcloth to a toothbrush for kids. Also, a child must be taken for their first dental visit within 6 months of the first tooth erupting, which should be not later than a kid’s first birthday. Additionally, parents should always stop children from sucking their thumbs as it can affect their tooth alignment. Also, never let them sleep with a bottle in their mouth as this can cause tooth decay. Children and teenagers Many who have crooked teeth start showing signs between the ages of 6 and 12.
Essential factors of mental health issues
health

Essential factors of mental health issues

There are a lot of misconceptions that people have about mental health. With the little information on mental health, people are often narrow-minded when it comes to treating mental illnesses and often this causes a big problem for those who have mental health problems. To help you understand better, we are here to provide you with the details of mental health problems, which include its stages, diagnosis, and treatment. Stages of mental health issues The following stages are generally experienced by patients: Stage 1: Preconception When the patient is in this stage, they may mostly be in denial. It is possible that they point out that something seems off but they are fully capable of going about with their usual routine. Stage 2: Contemplation At this stage, it is clear that the patient needs medical help. The symptoms have started to set in, and it has now started to affect the day-to-day routine of the patient. Stage 2: Crisis If stages 1 and 2 are dealt with in the right way, this stage can be avoided. If not, the patient may face a nervous breakdown. Stage 4: Getting Help This stage should ideally come before the crisis for the problem to be averted.
Stages, diagnosis, and prevention of multiple sclerosis
health

Stages, diagnosis, and prevention of multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis is a disease that affects the spinal cord and the brain. Some of the common symptoms of multiple sclerosis are weakening and numbing in the body, blurring of vision, headaches, loss of hearing, speech issues, seizures, and bladder issues. The main treatment of multiple sclerosis focuses on managing symptoms of the disease. Let us take a look at the stages that the person goes through in case of multiple sclerosis. Stages of multiple sclerosis There are four stages of multiple sclerosis. These include: Clinically isolated syndrome A clinically isolated syndrome is usually the first attack of multiple sclerosis experienced by patients. It is marked by an inflamed myelin sheath. At this stage, a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) test is used to make a proper diagnosis. Relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis Relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis is the most common stage. Most patients experience symptoms of this stage before the age of 30. Patients may experience episodes of symptoms. Relapse in this stage can lead to brain lesions. If patients go into remission, this phase can continue for a few weeks or even several years. Primary progressive multiple sclerosis Primary progressive multiple sclerosis usually begins in patients after they cross the age of 40.
Important things that you must know about pain management
health

Important things that you must know about pain management

The techniques of pain management are devised based on the cause of pain. Pain management also depends on the severity and duration of pain. It focuses on the identification of the source of pain and selecting the best course of treatment. Let us take a closer look at some of the aspects of pain management. Types of pain The most common types of pain are: Neuropathic pain It’s a type of pain, which impacts the nervous system. In this form of pain, there is damage to the nervous system. A typical example is a diabetic neuropathy. Neuropathic pain can also include fibromyalgia, sympathetically maintained pain and irritable bowel syndrome. Nociceptive pain It is a pain that results from a bone that is broken in the body. This pain is determined by the transfer of signals from the peripheral nerves to the brain through the spinal cord. Somatic pain This pain is a type that affects the thighs and back of the patient. Every time a patient goes to the doctor with back pain, their doctor checks their medical history and conducts a physical exercise test and imaging test. After an accurate diagnosis, the pain can be adequately treated. Cancer pain Cancer or the treatment of cancer can cause this type of pain.
Understanding the essentials about menopause
health

Understanding the essentials about menopause

Menopause is a stage at which the woman stops going through menstrual cycles. It is only considered menopause if you have not had your period for at least 12 months. In the US, the average age for it to occur is 51, but it can start as early as your 40s. It is a biological process that occurs naturally but, due to certain symptoms it causes, it can lead to disruptions in your daily schedule and life. Stages of menopause Menopause has three different stages, as given below. Perimenopause Before the actual menopause starts, the women’s body goes into the process of shifting from natural menstruation and ovulation cycle to permanent infertility. This stage is known as perimenopause. It generally starts in your 40s, but some women may experience it in their 30s too. The symptoms include irregular periods, sleep problems, and hot flashes. Menopause If you have not had your period in one year, then the perimenopause is over, and the actual menopause stage begins. You cannot get pregnant once you enter this stage. Postmenopause The years that follow are the postmenopause stage. The physical and emotional symptoms of menopause start to subside in most cases. You start to regain your energy levels and feel more emotionally stable.